By Geena Monahan—For the North Star Reporter
After nearly three decades rising through the ranks and shaping fire safety in North Attleborough, Deputy Fire Chief Michael Chabot was surrounded by colleagues, officials, friends and family on Thursday, Jan. 29, to mark his retirement and a career of steady leadership and service.
Fire Chief Christopher Coleman praised Chabot’s impact on the department, calling his career a testament to professionalism, integrity and service above self.
“Beyond the titles and accomplishments, what truly defines Mike is his character,” Coleman said at the fire station. “He is respected by his peers, trusted by those he supervised, and appreciated by the community he served.”
Chabot joined the department in 1997 as a firefighter and paramedic. He went on to serve as lieutenant, captain and, since 2018, deputy chief. In every role, Coleman said, Chabot was known for his calm demeanor and commitment to protecting others, often during the most difficult moments in their lives.
One of Chabot’s most significant contributions came through his work in the Fire Prevention Division, through which he helped bring numerous buildings into compliance with modern fire and sprinkler safety standards. While much of that happened behind the scenes, Coleman noted it has had a lasting effect on public safety throughout town.
Chabot also played a key role in developing and implementing North Attleborough’s private fire hydrant bylaw, a measure that expanded water access and fire protection across the community.
“Because of his persistence and expertise, our community is safer today than it was yesterday,” said Coleman.
A lifelong North Attleborough resident, Chabot followed a family legacy into the fire service. He is a third-generation firefighter and the fifth member of his family to serve with the department. All told, members of the Chabot family have logged 157 years of service in North Attleborough.
“I’m here because of the people who came before me and what they taught me,” Chabot said, thanking retired members in attendance whom he affectionately referred to as “the old-timers” for their leadership and mentorship.
Turning to the younger firefighters in attendance, Chabot said he hoped he passed along some lessons and reminded them that he is staying in town and remains a phone call away.
Chabot also spoke candidly about the importance of family, acknowledging that early in his career, the job sometimes took precedence.
“As I’ve gotten older, I’ve learned that family should always come first,” he said, crediting his loved ones for providing the support that allowed him to serve for nearly three decades.
The ceremony included moments of humor that reflected Chabot’s approach to leadership. After asking a representative from each shift to stand, Chabot presented them with Dunkin’ gift cards valued at $49.99—one cent under the town’s $50 gift limit—drawing laughter from the room. He said the cards were meant to treat their respective crews to a morning coffee run.
Chabot reflected on the camaraderie of the department, describing it as a second family forged through difficult calls and lighter moments. He told the North Star Reporter about a bus trip to New York City he organized for his shift several years ago to visit the 9/11 memorial, noting that many newer firefighters were not yet born at the time of the attacks.
“We get through good and bad times together,” he said. “That’s what makes this place special.”
State Rep. Adam Scanlon, D-North Attleborough, presented Chabot with a proclamation, recognizing his dedication to not only protecting his own family, but families throughout North Attleborough. Scanlon described the Fire Department as a place where people grow into leadership roles and that Chabot exemplified the kind of pillar future firefighters can aspire to.
Assistant Fire Chief George McKinnon followed with a commemorative award, complete with Chabot’s name engraved in an Iron Maiden-inspired font as a nod to his love for the band.
“On behalf of the department, the town, and the many lives you’ve touched over the past 29 years, thank you for your service, your leadership and your dedication,” said Coleman. “You will always be a part of the North Attleborough Fire Department family.”